The journey
The Gokyo Valley trek is a stunning alternative to the classic Everest Base Camp route. Instead of following the crowds to EBC, you head up the Dudh Kosi valley to a chain of six sacred turquoise glacial lakes, some of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.
The highlight is the climb up Gokyo Ri (5,357m), which many trekkers argue offers a better panoramic view than Kala Patthar. From the summit, you can see four 8,000-metre peaks at once: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, plus the vast Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest in the Himalayas.
With fewer trekkers, pristine lakes, and world-class views, Gokyo Valley is the thinking trekker's choice in the Khumbu region.
Trek Photos
Gokyo Ri Summit
Gokyo Lakes
Prayer Flags
First LightThe trail
Route overview: Kathmandu to Gokyo Ri via Namche Bazaar
The day to day
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
+Airport pickup, transfer to hotel in Thamel, trek briefing with your guide.
Fly to Lukla (2,840m), trek to Phakding (2,610m)
+Spectacular flight to Lukla. Short trek along the Dudh Kosi river to Phakding.
Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
+Cross suspension bridges, climb through pine forest to the Sherpa capital. First Everest views.
Acclimatisation Day in Namche
+Optional hike to Everest View Hotel (3,880m). Explore the Sherpa Culture Museum and weekly market.
Namche to Dole (4,110m)
+Leave the main EBC trail and head north-west into the Gokyo Valley. Trek through rhododendron forest past Mong La pass with views of Ama Dablam and Thamserku.
Dole to Machhermo (4,470m)
+Short trek through yak pastures. Machhermo has a rescue post and a memorial to the 1974 yeti encounter. Make of that what you will.
Machhermo to Gokyo (4,790m)
+Pass the first two glacial lakes, their turquoise colour intensifying as you climb. Arrive at Gokyo village on the shores of the third and largest lake.
Gokyo Ri (5,357m) & Exploration Day
+Pre-dawn climb of Gokyo Ri for sunrise over four 8,000m peaks. Afternoon to explore the fourth and fifth lakes along the Ngozumpa Glacier.
Gokyo to Dole (4,110m)
+Retrace the trail south, descending rapidly. The warmer, thicker air is a welcome relief.
Dole to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
+Final descent through the forest to Namche. Time for souvenir shopping and a proper meal.
Namche to Lukla (2,840m)
+Long downhill trek retracing your steps. Cross the suspension bridges for the last time.
Fly Lukla to Kathmandu
+Morning flight back to Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel, celebrate over dinner.
Departure Day
+Airport transfer for your onward journey. Trek complete.
What you get
Included
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu
- All accommodation (hotels + teahouses)
- Three meals per day on trek
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter service (1 porter per 2 trekkers)
- Domestic flights (Kathmandu–Lukla return)
- All permits (Sagarmatha National Park, TIMS)
- First aid kit and oximeter
- Trek briefing and gear check
Not Included
- International flights to/from Kathmandu
- Travel insurance (required)
- Nepal tourist visa
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Hot showers and device charging on trek
- Tips for guide and porters
- Personal expenses